Save Article

Author Jennifer Haigh on a Johnny Cash Classic

‘Down There by the Train’ stirs memories of a father

Aug. 9, 2016 11:26 a.m. ET

Jennifer Haigh, 47, is the author of six books, including her latest novel, “Heat & Light” (Ecco). She spoke with Marc Myers.

My father and Johnny Cash led parallel lives. They were born six months apart and died eight days apart. Both had been in the Army and were stationed in Germany at the same time. My dad also had a beautiful, grave baritone voice. After my dad died in 2003, I found myself listening a lot to Cash’s...